Heliot Europe partnered with LeakSafe to enable IoT-based water leak detection, prevention and management using LeakSafe’s WaterSwitch and WaterComm devices. These devices are now connected to Heliot’s Sigfox network, providing a reliable data connectivity solution for residential and commercial property owners, facility managers and insurers.
LeakSafe’s WaterSwitch device and WaterComm notification system operate by tracking real-time water usage and flow monitoring to identify potential leaks at the earliest stages before they become a major problem. Historically, water leak management has been resource intensive, often requiring manual inspections, resulting in costly delays when identifying issues.
By way of contrast, LeakSafe’s IoT enabled system – powered by Heliot’s low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) connectivity – continuously tracks water flows and flags unusual patterns. If a leak is detected, the WaterSwitch’s motorised valve automatically shuts off the water supply, providing an additional layer of protection, in turn reducing the risk of water damage and also alerting the property owner appropriately as needed.
Heliot’s LPWAN connectivity plays a critical role in enabling the real-time monitoring and control required. Unlike standard connectivity solutions like cellular and Wi-Fi, which can be limited by building infrastructure, Heliot’s Sigfox network provides consistent coverage across diverse building types and locations, ensuring LeakSafe’s devices can operate efficiently and transmit data without interruption. This connectivity also ensures that alerts and control instructions – such as the demand to shut off water – are relayed immediately. This empowers property owners and managers to respond proactively, saving time, and reducing costs associated with water damage and repairs.
“Our collaboration with Heliot Europe enables property owners, facilities managers, and insurers to take control of water management in a way that was not previously possible,” said Andy Welch, Business Development Manager, LeakSafe. “We developed our IoT-enabled WaterSwitch and WaterComm devices to be compact, easy to install and scalable – alongside this, they are both robust and cost-effective, as the data costs for the system are low.
“Partnering with Heliot has allowed us to offer a reliable, affordable connectivity-based solution that operates in challenging environments, such as hard to reach locations and even underground. Our devices are designed for long term use in the field too, and need minimal battery replacements. This makes them an ideal choice for a range of building types and locations. Moreover, they safeguard properties and promote sustainable practices.
“For instance, the problem of water wastage in the UK is enormous for consumers and businesses. Over 1 trillion litres of water were lost to leaks in the UK last year alone, and insurers today currently pay out an estimated £1.8 million per day for water-related claims. In the face of these challenges, we’re delighted to bring this innovative solution to market alongside Heliot. It will become integral to many water damage prevention strategies across the UK in the future.”
“This partnership with LeakSafe marks a significant step forward in how water leak detection and management can be achieved in residential and commercial properties across the UK. By connecting LeakSafe’s WaterSwitch and WaterComm devices to our Sigfox network, we are delivering a robust, low maintenance, IoT-enabled solution that tackles water damage prevention with unmatched reliability and coverage,” added Gareth Mitchell, UK Partner Manager, Heliot Europe.
As the exclusive Sigfox 0G network operator across multiple European countries, including the UK, Heliot Europe provides a robust, energy-efficient network well suited for IoT deployments in critical sectors.
The Sigfox network’s low-frequency radio technology offers a cost-effective, secure, and reliable alternative to existing cellular and Wi-Fi networks, allowing LeakSafe devices to connect without accessing client networks or security systems. In doing so, this solution ensures efficient installation, seamless operation, and long-lasting device battery life, supporting a wide range of applications in water leak detection and others.
There’s plenty of other editorial on our sister site, Electronic Specifier! Or you can always join in the conversation by commenting below or visiting our LinkedIn page.